FBI, NOPD probe deputy shooting of man in New Orleans

NEW ORLEANS – New Orleans police and the FBI have announced they are forming a task force to investigate the fatal shooting of a 22-year-old black man by two sheriff's deputies.

Eric Harris, 22, died after being shot following a vehicle chase that started at a suburban mall and ended in downtown New Orleans on Feb. 8.

According to a department statement late Wednesday, Jefferson Parish deputies told police they pursued Harris' vehicle after learning he was armed with a gun and involved in an incident at Oakwood Mall in Gretna, Louisiana.

Deputies told police they followed Harris until his vehicle stopped and fired at the vehicle after they felt they were in danger.

The shooting has sparked protests. On Saturday, protesters blocked the street where Harris crashed into the telephone pole.